Moviehttp://www.maclife.com/taxonomy/term/6089/all
enApple Daily: Faster LTE in Next iPhone; Steve Jobs Biopic Trailer; New iPod Colorshttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/apple_daily_faster_lte_next_iphone_steve_jobs_biopic_trailer_new_ipod_colors
<!--paging_filter--><p>Another set of "leaked" photos appeared today, and these hint that we'll get to enjoy a much more powerful LTE chip in the upcoming iPhones. And that's not all on the hardware front: new iPods (or at least new colors) may be on the way, too! Also, there's now a full-length trailer for Danny Boyle's Steve Jobs biopic.</p><h3>Photos Suggest 'iPhone 6s' Will Have a Stronger LTE Chip</h3><p>Yesterday we got a look at the <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/apple_daily_apple_music_officially_launches_leaked_iphone_6s_photos_emerge" target="_blank">purported shell</a> of the so-called "iPhone 6s," and thanks to the same unidentified sources along Apple's supply line (via <a href="http://9to5mac.com/2015/07/01/phone-6s-twice-as-fast-better-battery/" target="_blank">9to5Mac</a>), we now have new photos of alleged logic boards for the upcoming smartphone. Notably, the photos suggest that the new device will sport an updated Qualcomm LTE chip, which will bring iPhone users both greater LTE speeds and reduced battery consumption.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2015/07/chip.jpg" /></p><p><a href="http://9to5mac.com/2015/07/01/phone-6s-twice-as-fast-better-battery/" target="_blank"><strong>Source: 9to5Mac</strong></a></p><p>The specific chip pictured is the Qualcomm MDM9635M, which should provide a significant boost over the 9x25 modem platform found in both the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. This in turn means that the new iPhones could see LTE download speeds of around 300 Mbps, which is double what we can get through the current models. Qualcomm claims that the chip is much more energy efficient, which should result in longer battery life.</p><p>In conjunction with the leak from yesterday, today's leak (if real) confirms the most common assumption about the upcoming iPhones — namely, that they won't look too different from the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus on the outside, but they'll boast some significant improvements within.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Universal Releases Full-Length Trailer for Upcoming Steve Jobs Biopic</h3><p>Smartly timed in the wake of a major Apple release, the first official trailer for the<em> Steve Jobs</em> biopic starring Michael Fassbender and Seth Rogen has arrived. Lasting almost three minutes, the trailer confirms earlier reports that the film would revolve around three major product launches in Jobs' life, in addition to Jobs' relationship with his daughter, Lisa Brennan-Jobs.</p><p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aEr6K1bwIVs" width="620" height="349" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><p>This is the first time we've seen Fassbender in the title role aside from shots taken on set, and while he still doesn't look a thing like Jobs, Fassbender seems to accurately capture the personality and mannerisms of the late Apple co-founder. The trailer also places considerable focus on the performances of Jeff Daniels as former Apple CEO John Sculley and Kate Winslet as former Macintosh and NeXT team member Joanna Hoffman.</p><p>Production of the film got off to a rough start, as both <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_says_no_steve_jobs_role" target="_blank">Christian Bale</a> and <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_cheaper_beats_music_iphone_6_plus_shipments_rise_who_plays_jobs" target="_blank">Leonardo DiCaprio</a> dropped out of the lead role, and at one point the director changed a well. While the trailer is but a glimpse of what we can expect, it appears that director Danny Boyle has created a film that has a much better chance of capturing the hearts of critics than Ashton Kutcher's earnest but widely panned <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/mixed_reviews_ashton_kutchers_jobs_biopic_roll" target="_blank">film </a>from 2013. The latest film will hit theaters later this year on October 9.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Apple's iPod Lineup May Soon See New Colors</h3><p>The iPod is dead; long live the iPod. Early this morning users digging round in the new iTunes 12.2 release noticed that there was an unannounced Apple product update possibly hiding in plain sight, as official images of the iPod touch, nano, and shuffle often tended to show the devices in colors that currently aren't available. <a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2015/07/01/color-lineup-for-upcoming-ipod-refresh/" target="_blank">MacRumors </a>did some additional digging, and now it seems all but certain that all products from the iPod lineup could soon be available in pink, blue, and gold. It's a small thing, perhaps, but it shows that Apple's not quite ready to give up on the device that did so much during the company's long, slow march back to the top.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2015/07/ipod_colors.jpg" /></p><p><strong>Source: <a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2015/07/01/color-lineup-for-upcoming-ipod-refresh/" target="_blank">MacRumors</a></strong></p><p>If true, this means that the devices should soon be available in a total of six different colors (with silver, space gray, and red representing the existing hues). Since this is all based on speculation from visual evidence, though, there's no word as to whether the devices will receive updated internal components to complement their bright new colors. But we can always hope, right?</p><p>As things stand, the iPod hasn't seen any new colors or internal updates since 2013. Some readers, however, think we might learn something from Apple on the matter as soon as July 14. Admittedly, it's a bit of a stretch, as it's based on a "clue" in the Calendar app icon shown on the devices, which reads "Tuesday 14."</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer, <a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank">Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/apple_daily_faster_lte_next_iphone_steve_jobs_biopic_trailer_new_ipod_colors#commentsNewsAaron SorkinbiopicDanny BoyleiphoneiPodLTEMichael FassbenderMovieQualcommSteve JobsWed, 01 Jul 2015 23:59:59 +0000Leif Johnson21798 at http://www.maclife.comThe Week's 10 Hottest Apple News Stories, February 6http://www.maclife.com/article/news/weeks_10_hottest_apple_news_stories_february_6
<!--paging_filter-->http://www.maclife.com/article/news/weeks_10_hottest_apple_news_stories_february_6#commentsGalleryNewsandroidApple StoreApple WatcharchivingautomobilebackupcameraColumnsiOS 8.2iphoneMaclifeMichael FassbenderMoviePhotographyPhotosSeth RoganSiriSteve JobsTheftiPadiPhoneiPodMacSat, 07 Feb 2015 01:51:25 +0000MacLife Staff21274 at http://www.maclife.comThe Week's 10 Hottest Apple News Stories, January 30http://www.maclife.com/article/news/weeks_10_hottest_apple_news_stories_january_30
<!--paging_filter-->http://www.maclife.com/article/news/weeks_10_hottest_apple_news_stories_january_30#commentsGalleryNewsApple WatchcloudColumnsfinancial earningsFreeiMaciTunesMoviePartyPhotosSteve JobsSuper BowliPadiPhoneiPodMacSat, 31 Jan 2015 01:57:30 +0000MacLife Staff21246 at http://www.maclife.comThe Week's 10 Hottest Apple News Stories, January 23http://www.maclife.com/article/news/weeks_10_hottest_apple_news_stories_january_23
<!--paging_filter-->http://www.maclife.com/article/news/weeks_10_hottest_apple_news_stories_january_23#commentsGalleryNews12-inch MacBook AirApple WatchbiopicblackberryColumnsipad proKoreamacbook airMovieSamsungSetve JobsStylusSuper BowlTipstricksyosemiteiPadiPhoneMacSat, 24 Jan 2015 01:30:00 +0000MacLife Staff21223 at http://www.maclife.comApple Daily: iPad Pro Stylus, Steve Jobs Biopic Production, MLK Dayhttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/apple_daily_ipad_pro_stylus_steve_jobs_biopic_production_mlk_day
<!--paging_filter--><p>Steve Jobs probably wouldn't have liked it, but analyst Ming-Chi Kuo believes that Apple plans to release its 12.9-inch iPad Pro with a optional stylus. In other news, production has at last started on Danny Boyle's Steve Jobs biopic, judging from the film crews outside Jobs' boyhood home, and Apple paid homage to Martin Luther King, Jr. on its homepage today.</p><h3>Rumor: Apple May Release iPad Pro with Optional Stylus</h3><p>Famed analyst Ming-Chi Kuo of KGI Securities is back with another one of his predictions for Apple's future, and this time he states that the Cupertino company will most likely release an optional stylus when (and of course, if) it releases the long-rumored 12.9-inch iPad Pro. Steve Jobs was famously critical of using a stylus during his 2007 iPhone announcement, but Kuo seems to think it might find a better market with Apple's supposed ginormous tablet.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2015/01/stylus.jpg" width="620" height="348" /></p><p>Optional is the key word here, as Kuo believes it'll drive up the cost of the tablet itself too high if it came with all purchases.</p><p>"We don’t think all users will need a stylus initially," Kuo said in his letter to investors, according to <a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2015/01/18/kuo-ipad-pro-stylus/" target="_blank">MacRumors</a>. "Coupled with its unfavorable cost structure, high selling prices may turn consumers off if the 12.9-inch iPad is always bundled with it. We therefore expect the stylus to be an optional accessory before sufficient user feedback is received."</p><p>Kuo believes the iPad Pro and its associated stylus should appear sometime in the second or third quarter of this year.</p><h3>Production on Steve Jobs Biopic Starts in Los Altos</h3><p>After all those months of rumors and cast and director changes, the new Steve Jobs biopic has at last commenced production at Steve Jobs' boybood home in Los Altos, California. Currently crews are just setting up, according to <a href="http://www.cnet.com/pictures/as-new-film-begins-to-shoot-look-inside-the-apple-garage-pictures/" target="_blank">CNET</a>, but the actual filming should begin on Friday afternoon.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2015/01/jobshome.jpg" width="620" height="349" /></p><p>Specifically, the team is currently in the process of making the garage look like it might have looked back in 1976 when Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs were putting together the Apple I (although Wozniak says the garage story is <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/woz_debunks_origin_apple_i" target="_blank">a bit of a myth</a>).</p><p>The film will star Michael Fassbender in the role of Jobs, while <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/seth_rogen_likely_play_steve_woz_wozniak_new_steve_jobs_biopic" target="_blank">Seth Rogen</a> will play the part of Steve Wozniak and Jeff Daniels will portray early Apple CEO John Sculley. Kate Winslet will also star in an unknown role.</p><p>You can check out a full gallery of the production photos at <a href="http://www.cnet.com/pictures/as-new-film-begins-to-shoot-look-inside-the-apple-garage-pictures/" target="_blank">CNET</a>.</p><h3>Apple Celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. Day</h3><p>Today is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the United States, and to commemorate the event, Apple has updated <a href="http://www.apple.com/" target="_blank">its homepage</a> to feature Dr. King with a full-page memorial. The page features a photo of King delivering one of his speeches, and is accompanied by the words: “Today we reflect on the life and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the work that continues in service of the broader concerns of humanity."</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/king2.jpg" width="620" height="350" /></p><p>Earlier today, Apple CEO Tim Cook acknowledged the federal holiday on <a href="https://twitter.com/tim_cook/status/557152554685984768" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, saying "Honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." with a link to Apple's homepage. <a href="http://9to5mac.com/2015/01/19/apple-commemorates-martin-luther-king-on-its-homepage-encouraging-employees-to-volunteer-through-gift-matching/" target="_blank">9to5Mac</a> reports that Apple is using the holiday to encourage its own employees to volunteer, and apparently the Cupertino company is donating "an additional $50 for every voluntary hour worked by employees" as a part of its gift matching program.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer, <a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank">Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/apple_daily_ipad_pro_stylus_steve_jobs_biopic_production_mlk_day#commentsNewsApple historybiopiciPadiPad stylusMartin Luther KingMLKMovieSteve JobsTue, 20 Jan 2015 00:22:48 +0000Leif Johnson21207 at http://www.maclife.comApple Daily: Apple Watch Scheduled for March, 12-inch MacBook Air Rumorshttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/apple_daily_apple_watch_scheduled_march_12inch_macbook_air_rumors
<!--paging_filter--><p>It's hard to deny that the biggest Apple news of early 2015 is the impending launch of the Apple Watch, and guess what? There's a new rumor out there that claims to have narrowed down the release window of the highly anticipated timepiece. But that's not all — surprising new details appear to have emerged on the alleged 12-inch MacBook Air, plus there's more news on who's playing who in the upcoming Steve Jobs biopic.</p><h3>Apple Watch Slated for March Releases, Sources Say</h3><p>It's early 2015 now, and as you might recall, that's when we're supposed to see the Apple Watch hitting the shelves. According to the ever-anonymous sources in the know consulted by <a href="http://9to5mac.com/2015/01/06/apple-watch-launch/" target="_blank">9to5Mac</a>, however, "any day now" is actually sometime in March. The latest rumors have the backing of an earlier statement from senior vice president of retail Angela Ahrendts that we'd see the watch "<a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_spring_launch_apple_watch_99_iphone_6_deal_sams_club" target="_blank">in the spring</a>" sometime after the Chinese New Year.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2015/01/applewatch.jpg" width="620" height="348" /></p><p>On the retail front, Apple is already preparing to train its teams in speaking about the device by having each Apple retail store send one or two representatives to either Cupertino, California or Austin, Texas to handle and learn about the watch between February 9 and February 15.</p><p>The report also states that Apple has continued to tweak the device since its announcement in September, not only through software improvements but also through external components such as the device's charger.</p><p>The metal and glass "sport" model, currently thought to be the least expensive Apple Watch unit, is expected to retail for $349.</p><h3>Apple Said to Make Thin, Almost Portless 12-inch MacBook Air in 2015</h3><p><a href="http://9to5mac.com/2015/01/06/macbook-air-12-inch-redesign/" target="_blank">9to5Mac</a>'s anonymous sources from within Apple have also stated that the company's rumored 12-inch MacBook Air is indeed a reality and that we'll see it sometime this year.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2015/01/usb.jpg" width="620" height="255" /></p><p><strong>Concept via <a href="http://9to5mac.com/2015/01/06/macbook-air-12-inch-redesign/" target="_blank">9to5Mac</a></strong></p><p>Reportedly, Apple's really slimming down on this one and it'll lack almost all of the ports found in previous versions. Gone, for instance, are the standard USB and MagSafe ports; instead, we'll get a headphone jack, a pair of microphones, and what looks like a USB Type-C port that will likely handle charging.</p><p>It's so thin, in fact, that Apple employees are apparently calling the thing the "MacBook Stealth" internally. You can get an idea of what you'll expect (according to the rumors) through the illustration above.</p><h3>Perla Haney-Jardine Said to Play Steve Jobs' Daughter in Biopic</h3><p>Just <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_apple_id_recovery_key_nightmare_bose_heading_back_apple" target="_blank">under a month</a>&nbsp;after word dropped from Variety that Natalie Portman had passed on the Steve Jobs biopic, presumably for the role of Jobs' daughter,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/jobs-biopic-casts-actress-portray-761250" target="_blank">The Hollywood Reporter </a>is now asserting&nbsp;that Perla Haney-Jardine has already been cast in that very role.</p><p>It's a fitting role, perhaps, as she's best known for her role as a daughter in the Kill Bill films, as Diane Lane's daughter in 2008's Untraceable, and as the Sandman's daughter in 2007's Spider-Man 3. Watch out for typecasting there, Perla.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2015/01/lisajobs.jpg" width="620" height="349" /></p><p><strong>Perla Haney-Jardine and Lisa Jobs, via <a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/jobs-biopic-casts-actress-portray-761250" target="_blank">Hollywood Reporter</a></strong></p><p>Despite some initial problems with actors like Leonardio DiCaprio and <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_talks_portray_steve_jobs_upcoming_biopic" target="_blank">Christian Bale</a> dropping out and an entire ownership shift from Sony to Universal, the film looks like it's on the right track again. <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/magneto_now_talks_play_steve_jobs" target="_blank">Michael Fassbender</a> is currently thought to be play Jobs himself, while <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/seth_rogen_likely_play_steve_woz_wozniak_new_steve_jobs_biopic" target="_blank">Seth Rogen</a> fills in as Steve Wozniak and <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/jeff-daniels-john-sculley-steve-jobs-film" target="_blank">Jeff Daniels</a> plays early Apple CEO John Sculley. Kate Winslet is reportedly involved with the film, but her role remains unknown.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer, <a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank">Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/apple_daily_apple_watch_scheduled_march_12inch_macbook_air_rumors#commentsNewsAngela AhrendtsApple historyApple WatchbiopicDanny BoyleiWatchJeff DanielsLeonardo DiCaprioLisa JobsMichael FassbenderMoviePerla Haney-JardineWed, 07 Jan 2015 01:18:18 +0000Leif Johnson21162 at http://www.maclife.comJeff Daniels Reportedly Joining Steve Jobs Filmhttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/jeff-daniels-john-sculley-steve-jobs-film
<!--paging_filter--><p><img src="/files/u324771/daniels_inset.png" width="300" height="255" class="graphic-right" />The Aaron Sorkin-penned Steve Jobs biopic has had a tough time casting its lead role, locking in a director, or even <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_new_iphone_6_ads_universal_rescues_biopic_voice_thanks" target="_blank">sticking with a studio</a>, but things finally appear to be falling into place. Now at Universal and with Danny Boyle (<em>Slumdog Millionaire</em>) directing, the film is <a href="http://www.thewrap.com/steve-jobs-movie-jeff-daniels-eyed-to-play-former-apple-ceo-john-sculley-exclusive/" target="_blank">reportedly</a> adding Jeff Daniels (<em>The Newsroom</em>) as former Apple CEO John Sculley.</p><p>Daniels has recently worked with Sorkin on HBO's <em>The Newsroom</em>, which landed the actor an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2013. His involvement in the Jobs project has yet to be finalized, but an official offer "is expected to materialize soon."</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/12/jobsandsculley.jpg" width="620" height="400" /></p><p><strong>[Above right] Jeff Daniels in <em>The Newsroom</em>. [Above] John Sculley with Steve Jobs.</strong></p><p>If Daniels agrees, he'll likely join <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/magneto_now_talks_play_steve_jobs" target="_blank">Michael Fassbender</a> in the role of Steve Jobs and <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/seth_rogen_likely_play_steve_woz_wozniak_new_steve_jobs_biopic" target="_blank">Seth Rogen</a>&nbsp;as Steve Wozniak. Of course, there's still a chance he might pass, as many actors already have. Natalie Portman reportedly turned down the chance to play Steve Jobs's daughter Lisa, and Leonardo DiCaprio, Christian Bale, and director David Fincher all walked away from the film.</p><p>Sorkin's script focuses on the buildup behind three major product launches during Jobs's career, which each segment taking around 30 minutes to watch. Despite its troubles, the production is still expected to start early next year.</p><p>Sorkin's script is based on Water Isaacson's acclaimed biography of Jobs that came out in 2011.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer, <a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank">Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/jeff-daniels-john-sculley-steve-jobs-film#commentsNewsAaron SorkinApple historybiopicHBOJeff DanielsJohn SculleyMovieSteve JobsThe NewsroomUniversalWed, 10 Dec 2014 00:44:51 +0000Leif Johnson21053 at http://www.maclife.comChristian Bale Says 'No' to Steve Jobs Rolehttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_says_no_steve_jobs_role
<!--paging_filter--><p>Christian Bale seemed so <em>perfect</em> for the role of Steve Jobs in the upcoming Danny Boyle biopic. He had the acting chops, the looks, and of course, the <em><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/film/2009/feb/09/christian-bale-apologises-for-onset-rant" target="_blank">temper</a></em>. Alas, it's not to be. Despite a wave of excitement for his casting that brought coverage all the way to Conan O'Brien's show (see video below), the <a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/christian-bale-exits-steve-jobs-745784" target="_blank">Hollywood Reporter </a>claims that Bale stepped down because he believed he "was not right for the part."</p><p>Other people certainly feel the opposite. First there's director Danny Boyle, who reportedly hired Bale without so much as an audition. Director David Fincher was originally supposed to helm the film, but bailed himself after he looked like he couldn't secure Bale for the role earlier in the year. Screenwriter<a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/acclaimed_screenwriter_aaron_sorkin_submits_script_new_steve_jobs_movie" target="_blank"> Aaron Sorkin </a>even had high hopes for Bale in the role in a <a href="https://variety.com/2014/film/news/aaron-sorkin-confirms-christian-bale-playing-steve-jobs-1201337292/" target="_blank">Variety</a> article, claiming that the Dark Knight actor would "crush it."</p><p><iframe src="//www.youtube.com/embed/e70A-FrlKSk" width="620" height="349" frameborder="0"></iframe></p><p><strong>What could have been. (Team Coco parody)</strong></p><p>It's possible the news might affect other casting as well. Sometime comedic actor Seth Rogen was <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/seth_rogen_likely_play_steve_woz_wozniak_new_steve_jobs_biopic" target="_blank">all but confirmed </a>to play Apple co-founder Steve "Woz" Wozniak as recently as last week, and actress Jessica Chastain was said to be in talks for an unspecified role. It's also worth noting that Bale isn't the first major actor to back away from the role: Leonardo DiCaprio <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/morning_report_cheaper_beats_music_iphone_6_plus_shipments_rise_who_plays_jobs" target="_blank">pulled out </a>earlier this year after expressing a desire for a break from acting.</p><p>The project increasingly looks doomed or set for delays, which is a shame since Aaron Sorkin's script could achieve the same acclaimed he won for the script for <em>The Social Network</em>, based on the life of Facebook co-founder. (Notably, Sorkin didn't exactly stick to the facts for Zuckerberg's tale, which inevitably invites concern as to whether he'd take similar liberties with Jobs' life.) The script itself, based on Walter Isaacson's acclaimed biography, is said to consist of three long scenes, each centering on a key product launch from Jobs' life.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer,<a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank"> Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_says_no_steve_jobs_role#commentsNewsAaron SorkinApple historybiopicchristian baleDanny Boyledavid fincherFilmhistory of AppleMovieSteve JobsMon, 03 Nov 2014 23:51:39 +0000Leif Johnson20883 at http://www.maclife.comSeth Rogen Likely to Play Steve 'Woz' Wozniak in New Steve Jobs Biopichttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/seth_rogen_likely_play_steve_woz_wozniak_new_steve_jobs_biopic
<!--paging_filter--><p>According to a report by <a href="http://variety.com/2014/film/news/seth-rogen-steve-wozniak-steve-jobs-biopic-1201338038/" target="_blank">Variety</a>, actor Seth Rogen will likely be playing Apple co-founder Steve "Woz" Wozniak in the upcoming <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/christian_bale_talks_portray_steve_jobs_upcoming_biopic?utm_source=Social&amp;utm_medium=Twitter&amp;utm_campaign=Owned" target="_blank">Steve Jobs biopic </a>starring Christian Bale. There's a touch of iffiness about the claim as <a href="http://www.thewrap.com/seth-rogen-eyed-to-play-apples-steve-wozniak-in-christian-bales-steve-jobs-movie-exclusive/" target="_blank">TheWrap</a> notes that Rogen doesn't have a deal in place, but most sources agree that Rogen is at least in talks for the role.</p><p>Rogen will reportedly get to work with Woz himself for advice on the role, which is based on Walter Isaacson's bestselling biography of Jobs. The screenplay itself, written by <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/acclaimed_screenwriter_aaron_sorkin_submits_script_new_steve_jobs_movie" target="_blank">Aaron Sorkin</a> of <em>The Social Network</em> fame, consists of three lengthy scenes corresponding to three major product launches from Jobs' life. Danny Boyle, best known for films like <em>Slumdog Millionaire</em> and<em> 28 Days Later</em>, will direct the film.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/10/rogen.jpg" width="620" height="413" /></p><p><strong>Source: <a href="http://blogs.indiewire.com/womenandhollywood/hollywood-feminist-of-the-day-seth-rogen" target="_blank">IndieWire</a></strong></p><p>Rogen himself is usually best known for his comedic work in films like <em>Superbad</em> and <em>The 40-Year-Old Virgin</em>, but lately he's tackled more serious work in films like <em>Take This Waltz</em> to much acclaim. Sorkin's script might allow for both ends of his range. As for Woz, he left Apple way back in 1987, but media outlets still often seek his opinion on the latest developments from the Cupertino company he founded.</p><p>The followup report from TheWrap also claims that Jessica Chastain of <em>Zero Dark Thirty</em>&nbsp;fame is&nbsp;also in talks for the film, although the role in consideration currently isn't known. Production will reportedly begin sometime next spring.</p><p><em>Follow this article's writer,<a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank"> Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/seth_rogen_likely_play_steve_woz_wozniak_new_steve_jobs_biopic#commentsNewsAaron SorkinApple historybiopicchristian baleDanny Boylehistory of AppleMoviemoviesSteve JobsThu, 30 Oct 2014 22:14:21 +0000Leif Johnson20866 at http://www.maclife.comHow to Use Transitions in Premiere Elementshttp://www.maclife.com/article/howtos/how_use_transitions_premiere_elements
<!--paging_filter--><p>When filmmaking was in its infancy, making transitions was a tricky prospect. You had to do it all “in the real world,” so to speak, by superimposing two projected videos and recording the result. Needless to say, it was hard work and only used in specific parts of the film — such as the end of a scene — but once the effect was done, it was done. If it was off by a few frames, unless you could afford to reshoot the transition, that was that.&nbsp;</p><p>These days, with the advent of digital desktop video editing, the process is infinitely simpler. You can choose where to apply the transition, alter it as you please, and even replace it with a different one that’s more to your liking. In comparison to what you had to work with before, your options are practically limitless, and it’s all fairly easy to do, too.</p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_main.png" width="620" height="388" /></p><p>As you’d expect, you’re not limited to a basic cross-dissolve with Adobe Premiere Elements 12. In fact, you can choose between no less than 53 different types of transition (nine of which are available in Quick mode; the rest you’ll find in Expert mode) to make your project as visually stimulating as possible. Remember to use them sparingly, though. There is such a thing as too much sparkle, and this could end up distracting your audience from the story you’re trying to tell.</p><p>This month, we show you where to find the transitions and how to use and alter them to suit your needs. The methods detailed work just as well in Quick and Expert mode, but we work in Quick mode for the purposes of this exercise.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>1. The Transitions Menu</strong></p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_1.png" width="620" height="293" /></p><p>Open or create a project with at least two video clips in it. The transitions are located in the bottom toolbar, in a menu appropriately called Transitions. Click on it to see the various options at your disposal. You can resize the menu by dragging its top edge up or down.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>2. Previewing Transitions</strong></p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_2.png" width="620" height="403" /></p><p>You’re presented with a series of thumbnails, each bearing a title describing the transition. It’s often hard to get an idea of a motion effect with a static thumbnail, though, so click on one to get an animated preview of the transition. You can only animate one at a time.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>3. Drag and Drop</strong></p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_3.png" /></p><p>Drag the transition onto your project. As you do, the menu closes and a thick green line appears along an edit point. Keep moving your cursor until that line is between the two clips you want to apply a transition to. Once you’re there, release the mouse button.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>4. Timing</strong></p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_4.png" /></p><p>A menu called Transition Adjustments appears over your chosen edit point. You can choose the transition duration in seconds. If one second is too long, you can forgo the up/down arrows and type in a value such as, say, 0.5, to give you a half-second transition.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>5. Alignment</strong></p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_5.png" width="620" height="394" /></p><p>The alignment determines when the transition starts and ends. Left Clip means the transition takes place at the end of the first clip; Between Clips, the transition’s duration is spread between both; Right Clip means the transition is only over the second clip.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>6. Square Display</strong></p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_6.png" /></p><p>Select an alignment and click Done. Depending on the alignment chosen, there’s a small thumbnail square on the left clip, half a square on either side, or one on the right clip. Move the playhead a little to the left and tap the spacebar to see a preview.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>7. Alteration</strong></p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_7.png" width="620" height="357" /></p><p>Obviously, it’s only when you play it that you see whether a transition works. If you’d like to make changes, double-click the small square mentioned earlier. This reopens the Transition Adjustments window so you can make alterations. Click Done to preview your changes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>8. A New Transition</strong></p><p><img src="/files/u332541/2014/07/howtopremiere_8.png" /></p><p>To see what another effect looks like, select a new one from the Transitions menu and drag it to the same edit point. The duration and alignment settings are preserved from your previous transition, but the new look takes precedence. Click Done to see what it looks like.</p>http://www.maclife.com/article/howtos/how_use_transitions_premiere_elements#commentsAdobe Premiere Elements 12EditingFilmMoviePremiere ElementstransitionsMacHow-TosTue, 08 Jul 2014 23:31:34 +0000Steve Paris20283 at http://www.maclife.comThe Amazing Spider-Man 2 Reviewhttp://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/amazing_spiderman_2_review
<!--paging_filter--><p>Even by the relatively low standards of movie tie-in games, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is a weak entry. It makes a strong first impression with vibrant graphics in an open-world setting, but absolutely everything else about it is underwhelming, bland, or outright frustrating.&nbsp;</p><p>Most of the problems are fundamental and extend from the game’s own lofty ambitions. An open-world setting demands that Spidey swing freely, which works just fine so long as he’s heading in a straight line. Turning with the virtual stick is terribly imprecise, though, and made worse by a camera that doesn’t properly follow your movements. We would find ourselves constantly losing our swing and landing on a building, which the wall-crawler (naturally) sticks to without any easy method of reorienting yourself.&nbsp;</p><p><img src="/files/u338318/2014/04/img_0141.jpg" width="620" height="465" /></p><p>The combat, consisting mostly of mashing the attack button and occasionally hitting a flashing counter button, doesn’t initiate until you press a button in the middle of the screen—far out of reach when holding an iPad. Controlling the temperamental camera in combat is a chore, and during fast-paced boss fights, it becomes nearly impossible. We died in battle against Green Goblin several times because we simply couldn’t tell where he was. The camera tracked him automatically, but only after stalling a few moments, giving him the opportunity to move again.</p><p>The Amazing Spider-Man 2 does at least have longevity to its credit, but only because the story missions are padded by repetitive tasks. You’ll have to stop a dozen or so identical car thieves just to unlock a mission that advances the story. Worse yet, you don’t know what these missions will consist of until you reach them, so you can’t pick and choose.</p><p>A constant Internet connection is needed to play, but it seems simply to support a network of fairly pricey microtransactions in a premium game. And on our tester 4th-generation iPad, at least, the frame rate noticeably dropped when near more graphically demanding areas like Central Park. If you’d rather avoid Central Park, too bad—one of the random mission types involves swinging an injured civilian to a hospital, which happens to be right next to the famed locale.</p><p><strong>The bottom line.</strong> The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is rife with mechanical problems, bloated with aggressive in-app purchase hooks, and forces a constant sense of mission deja vu. Don’t get caught in this web.</p><fieldset class="fieldgroup group-the-bottom-line"><legend>Review Synopsis</legend><div class="field field-type-text field-field-product">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Product:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-amazing-spider-man-2/id779561331?mt=8" target="_blank">The Amazing Spider-Man 2 1.0.0</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-company">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Company:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Gameloft </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-contact">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Contact:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="http://www.gameloft.com" target="_blank">www.gameloft.com</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-price">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Price:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
$4.99 </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-requirements">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Requirements:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch running iOS 7.0 or later</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-positives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Positives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Visually impressive, particularly for an open-world game.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-negatives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Negatives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Minor issues with small movements and using items while stationary. Need to complete all but two levels in each chapter, which prevents less-able players from progressing.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
</fieldset>
http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/amazing_spiderman_2_review#commentsGalleryReviewsactionapp store reviewsAppLifeAppsComicsFilmGameloftGamesiPod and iPhonemarvelMovieopen worldSoftwareSpider-ManSuperheroThe Amazing Spider-Man 2iPadiPhoneiPodMon, 28 Apr 2014 17:32:10 +0000Steve Watts19844 at http://www.maclife.comCaptain America: The Winter Soldier Reviewhttp://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/captain_america_winter_soldier_review
<!--paging_filter--><p>Marvel Comics’ latest film adaptation, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, has been receiving rave reviews in the run up to its release this Friday. Gameloft’s universal iOS beat-‘em-up of the same name has a fair bit going for it, as well, with solid presentation and quite a bit of content, but ultimately doesn’t captivate over the long haul. Spreading a small number of game mechanics and levels as thin as possible muddles what could have been a pretty strong action affair.</p><p>While the first Captain American movie game took the odd (but enjoyable) approach of a Mirror’s Edge-like side-scrolling runner, The Winter Soldier matches its super-powered subject well by letting you pummel ample goons and whip your star-emblazoned shield with ease. Using virtual buttons, taps and swipes, or a combination of the two control styles, you’ll wander through vertically-scrolling streets and metallic corridors, executing easy combos by hammering the single melee attack button, swiping to launch Cap’s shield, and occasionally using the suit-specific special ability—like a leaping ground-pound maneuver or a shield-driven rushing assault.</p><p><img src="/files/u338318/2014/04/captainamericatws.jpg" width="620" height="413" /></p><p>Simplistic as the combat may be, the brawling action is engaging at first, and you can recruit a pair of computer-controlled allies to support you with firearms—or occasionally call in Black Widow or Falcon to clear the screen of foes. The comic-esque aesthetic is generally solid, though the rare camera freak-out can be rather disorienting. The Winter Soldier’s main issue, however, comes with repetition. While expected from a button-mashing brawler, it’s amplified here by using the same handful of backdrops and enemy types over and over again for large chunks of its campaign, which totals nearly 100 brief missions at launch. Halving that total and offering more variety would've made for a really fun little brawler, but retreading the same ground ad nauseam proves tiring.</p><p>The Winter Soldier augments its main storyline action with various side elements, but none feel fleshed out or essential. You can battle random online opponents in the A.R.E.N.A. mode, but it amounts to nothing more than picking your squad members and flicking through a couple of menus; the “action” is totally automated and never shown. Meanwhile, the ability to combine and equip gems to enhance characters is unclear in spots, and spending coins to upgrade your buildings to house more allies than you’d ever actually need seems totally tacked on. Needing to be connected online at all times to play even the single-player story missions is also a frustratingly unnecessary aspect.</p><p><strong>The bottom line.</strong> Solidly enjoyable (albeit super streamlined) brawling action makes The Winter Solidier an intriguing comic affair, but serious repetition and underwhelming side elements wear out its welcome.</p><fieldset class="fieldgroup group-the-bottom-line"><legend>Review Synopsis</legend><div class="field field-type-text field-field-product">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Product:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/captain-america-winter-soldier/id808237503?mt=8" target="_blank">Captain America: The Winter Soldier 1.0.0</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-company">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Company:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Gameloft </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-contact">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Contact:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="http://www.gameloft.com" target="_blank">www.gameloft.com</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-price">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Price:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
$2.99 </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-requirements">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Requirements:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch running iOS 7.0 or later</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-positives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Positives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Solid, straightforward brawling action. Various suits offer distinct abilities. Dozens of relatively brief missions to whip through. Nice comic-inspired aesthetic.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-negatives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Negatives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Uses the same backdrops and enemies far too often, which amplifies the building repetition of the combat over time. Side elements like base building and “multiplayer” aren’t interesting. Internet connection required at all times.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
</fieldset>
http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/captain_america_winter_soldier_review#commentsGalleryReviewsactionapp store reviewsAppLifeAppsbrawlerCaptain Americacomic booksComicsGameloftGamesiPod and iPhonemarvelMovieSoftwaresuperheroesThe AvengersiPadiPhoneiPodTue, 01 Apr 2014 19:32:53 +0000Andrew Hayward19664 at http://www.maclife.comAcclaimed Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin Submits Script for New Steve Jobs Moviehttp://www.maclife.com/article/news/acclaimed_screenwriter_aaron_sorkin_submits_script_new_steve_jobs_movie
<!--paging_filter--><p>So get this--according to <a href="http://variety.com/2014/tv/news/newsroom-renewed-for-final-season-1201053054/" target="_blank">Variety </a>(via <a href="http://www.macrumors.com/2014/01/13/sorkin-completes-steve-jobs-script/" target="_blank">MacRumors</a>), Aaron Sorkin, acclaimed for his work with The West Wing, The Social Network, and A Few Good Men, has submitted a screenplay to Sony based on Walter Isaacson's Steve Jobs biography. Sony tagged him as the screenwriter for the project back in may of 2012, and it looks as though he's finally wrapped up his draft.</p><p>All this comes just a few months after the <a href="http://www.maclife.com/article/news/mixed_reviews_ashton_kutchers_jobs_biopic_roll" target="_blank">disappointing reception</a> for Ashton Kutcher's Jobs film, which focused on key events of Jobs' life. Yet Sorkin may be taking a different approach. In early talks about the screenplay, Sorkin envisioned the entire project taking place within three 30-minute scenes focusing on key product launches such as the original Mac, the NeXT cube, and the iPod.</p><p><img src="/files/u334114/2014/01/sorkin.jpg" width="620" height="411" /></p><p>That may have changed. As MacRumors notes, Sorkin has expressed his doubts about the film, arguing that biopics have a "cradle-to-grave structure" that's hard to break out of. That, indeed, was one of the pitfalls of Kutcher's film. With Jobs' life — and with unconventional structures such as the one mentioned above — the veteran screenwriter thinks he may have a chance to break out of that loop.</p><p>Right now, it seems a little too soon for a new Steve Jobs biopic, but that could change in the two years or more it'll likely take before we see the project on the screen. By then, perhaps we'll have arrived at a better time for a Steve Jobs film, and perhaps Sorkin's script will deliver a experience worth remembering.</p><p><em>Click here to follow this article's writer,<a href="https://twitter.com/LeifJohnson" target="_blank"> Leif Johnson</a>, on Twitter.</em></p>http://www.maclife.com/article/news/acclaimed_screenwriter_aaron_sorkin_submits_script_new_steve_jobs_movie#commentsNewsappleFilmhistoryMovieSonySteve JobsTue, 14 Jan 2014 02:07:04 +0000Leif Johnson19050 at http://www.maclife.comThor: The Dark World Reviewhttp://www.maclife.com/article/games/thor_dark_world_review
<!--paging_filter--><p>Thor is one truly badass warrior, but even his trusty hammer, electrifying moves, and a gaggle of armored cohorts to summon into battle can't quite save his latest jaunt from feeling a bit rickety around the edges. On a visual level, Thor: The Dark World is certainly an attractive-looking top-down brawler, which sends you through beautiful 3D environments to smash up evildoers and demonic beasts. Unfortunately, pushy microtransactions and shaky combat break the spell early on.</p><p><img src="/files/u338318/2013/11/thortdw3.png" width="620" height="465" /></p><p>Diving into each short mission, you'll smash, zap, and bludgeon your way through a nice range of foes across diversely themed worlds. Thor brings a crew of buddies along for the hack-and-slash ride this time around, taking a page from MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) games, which puts an interesting spin on the chaotic battles. Using rechargeable magic mojo, you can summon lots of different units to your side, from archers and spell-casters to swordsmen and pike-wielders. While they are largely mindless fodder to throw at the unruly hordes you clash with, seeing you don't have any direct control over them, each does have unique strengths and weaknesses against certain enemy types that make them useful in battle. Except, that is, when they get into trouble and clog up the screen. You can also bring allied heroes into battle, but they're pricey to unlock and require rest periods to recuperate between engagements.</p><p>Thor himself proves a less-than-ideal leader, thanks to a limited set of moves and iffy touch controls. Tapping enemies to attack proves imprecise when there's more than a couple of baddies in your midst, and trying to maneuver out of danger is just as awkward in the fray. Among the meager handful of basic combat moves at your disposal, throwing your hammer is the least effective, as it rarely goes where you direct it. At least the screen-zapping lightning powers look slick and are fairly devastating.</p><p>Despite the combat quirks, it's the aggressive microtransactions that do the most damage to the limited comic movie-based fun on tap here. With three different currencies to juggle, the need to shell out for everything from health potions and weapons to characters and experience upgrades gets a bit much. Falling in battle is particularly painful, however, as it gets pricey to revive yourself without having to restart a stage from scratch.</p><p><strong>The bottom line.</strong> Good looks and a blockbuster movie tie-in don't save Thor: The Dark World from its sloppy battles and lame freemium model.</p><fieldset class="fieldgroup group-the-bottom-line"><legend>Review Synopsis</legend><div class="field field-type-text field-field-product">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Product:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id633863854" target="_blank">Thor: The Dark World 1.0.0</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-company">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Company:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Gameloft </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-contact">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Contact:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="http://www.gameloft.com" target="_blank">http://www.gameloft.com</a></p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-price">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Price:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
Free </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-requirements">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Requirements:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>iPad, iPod Touch, or iPhone running iOS 5.0 or later</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-positives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Positives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Great-looking environments and characters. Lots of sweet unlockable Thor costumes.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="field field-type-text field-field-negatives">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Negatives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item odd">
<!--paging_filter--><p>Combat is chaotic and repetitive. Touch controls aren't responsive enough in battle. Aggressive microtransactions sap both your cash and your patience.</p> </div>
</div>
</div>
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http://www.maclife.com/article/games/thor_dark_world_review#commentsGalleryReviewsactionapp store reviewsAppLifeAppscomic booksComicsFilmfreemiumGameloftGamesheroesiPod and iPhoneMarvel ComicsMovieSoftwaresuperheroesThe Dark WorldThoriPadiPhoneiPodTue, 05 Nov 2013 21:55:37 +0000Nathan Meunier18544 at http://www.maclife.comPacific Rim Reviewhttp://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/pacific_rim_review
<!--paging_filter--><p>Pacific Rim, Guillermo del Toro’s blockbuster paean to classic Japanese monster flicks, seems tailor made for a video game adaptation, and Reliance Games' workmanlike effort dutifully pits enormous robot mechs (called Jaegers) against monstrous kaiju in a series of Infinity Blade-esque duels.<br /><br />Swipe gestures are used to attack and parry, while virtual buttons allow for blocking and evading. The mechanics are straightforward, but Pacific Rim suffers from control problems: swiping parries are often delayed or ignored totally and require surgical precision. As a result, playing Pacific Rim sometimes feels like anticipating its clunky timing instead of responding to the on-screen action.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="/files/u325188/2013/07/screen_12.png" width="620" height="349" /></p><p>Once you get the hang of parrying and evading enemy attacks, though, Pacific Rim threatens to develop a fun groove, and being able to wallop a 20-story stag beetle with a satisfying crunch has an undeniable appeal. Unfortunately, the game’s reliance on cutscenes and non-playable finishing moves — presumably to show off its slick 3D visuals — interrupt the action too often. Long loading times and occasional freezes exacerbate Pacific Rim’s stuttering, stop-start rhythm.<br /><br />Pacific Rim offers an array of customization options, too. Jaegers can upgrade their armor, speed, and strength, equip various upgradeable weapons, and use consumable items like healing nano-bots and air strikes. These bonuses compensate for the game’s uneven mechanics and difficulty curve rather than complement players’ styles or preferences, however, while also fueling its in-app purchases. <br /><br />Some missions come with annoyingly specific criteria such as using three air strikes, or equipping high-level armor, and eventually players will be forced to buy costly new Jaegers to progress. Players gain money by defeating kaiju and completing objectives, but the scale is way off, leaving would-be pilots constantly destitute. Missions are replayable and money earned in Survival mode carries over to the campaign, though, so Pacific Rim’s in-app purchases are technically optional. Still, it’s a repetitive slog for players looking to avoid extra expenses.<br /><br />Forcing players to use Jaegers they don’t want or can’t afford is a cheap trick, made all the more sleazy by Pacific Rim’s price and its de facto advertisement for the movie — but it might be excusable if grinding for money were more enjoyable in the first place.<br /><br /><strong>The bottom line.</strong> Pacific Rim has the ideas for a fun game, but none of the execution or respect for players’ time and money.</p><fieldset class="fieldgroup group-the-bottom-line"><legend>Review Synopsis</legend><div class="field field-type-text field-field-product">
<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Product:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
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<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pacific-rim/id639615384?mt=8" target="_blank">Pacific Rim 1.2.0</a></p> </div>
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Reliance Games </div>
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<!--paging_filter--><p><a href="http://www.reliancegames.com" target="_blank">http://www.reliancegames.com</a></p> </div>
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$4.99 </div>
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<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Requirements:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
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<!--paging_filter--><p>iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch running iOS 5.0 or later</p> </div>
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<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Positives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
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<!--paging_filter--><p>Detailed visuals capture the look and scale of Pacific Rim. Controls should be familiar to most players.</p> </div>
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<div class="field-label"><p><strong>Negatives:</strong>&nbsp;<p></div>
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<!--paging_filter--><p>Fights feel uneven and stuttery, bogged down by input delays. Loads of in-app purchases ruin the pacing and mission structure.</p> </div>
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http://www.maclife.com/article/reviews/pacific_rim_review#commentsGalleryReviewsactionapp store reviewsAppLifefightingGamesgamesGuillermo del Toroinfinity bladeiPadiPhone and iPod AppsmonstersMoviePacific RimreviewsRobotsSoftwaresoftwareiPadiPhoneiPodTue, 16 Jul 2013 20:34:33 +0000Joseph Leray17540 at http://www.maclife.com